Bedside Sleeper Cot

A bedside sleeper travel cot bedside crib (also called a bassinet) fixes to the bed's side so baby can be close enough for nighttime feeding, but in their own space to sleep. Our mothers appreciate that they are simple to reach and that they can also swivel or drop the sides to make them more accessible.

Safety

A bedside sleeper cot permits babies to be within reach of their parents in their beds for feeding at night, comforting and monitoring without putting them at risk with bed-sharing (which can lead to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). The cribs are designed to conform to NHS guidelines on co-sleeping and are recommended by childcare experts like director of Mother-Baby Behavioural Sleep Laboratory Dr McKenna.

They also provide immediate nursing support and help babies feel more secure by keeping them close, creating healthy attachments that assist with milestones in development. Parents should look for bassinets that are easy to clean, safe to use, and are certified by a reputable organization like JPMA.

In 2023, ASTM updated its version of the bedside sleeper voluntary standard F2906 in response to newer products that convert from a bassinet into the cheap bedside cot sleeper by lowering one side rail adjacent to an adult bed, and allowing some areas of the lower portion to be elevated level above the mattress, presenting an increased risk for trapping. CPSC's direct final rule incorporates in its reference this 2023 revision to the current mandatory standard under section 104 of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (CPSIA) for durable infant or toddler products that have been in use for more than 180 days and is expected to decrease the chance of injury.

Keep in mind that the bassinet or bedside sleeper should not be used in conjunction with pillows, blankets or other bedding. This could pose a risk of suffocation since young babies are unable to lift their heads up enough to keep them away from soft objects. A reclining position could cause the head tip forward, blocking their airway. Always put your child on their back when using a bassinet, a crib or play yard. Use an appropriate fitted sheet that meets the federal requirements.

Convenience

It is essential to keep your baby close during the night. This can help create a bond between parents and newborns. Bedside sleeper bassinets attach securely to the side of your bed and allow you to easily reach your little one for middle-of-the-night diaper changes, feedings and comforting. We looked for models with mesh sides that were transparent enough to see through, so you could monitor your baby without having to get out of bed.

It's important that the bassinet you pick is deemed safe for infants by an independent testing agency and that it meets all specifications of the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). You should look for an infant bassinet that has a large base and a sturdy attachment system. A breathable mattress should be included.

Find a model that has a manual rocking feature that's gentle on your baby and can help them sleep. Some models also come with tilt options which can be beneficial for newborns with reflux or colic but should only be used on the supervision of your doctor or health care professional.

Some bassinets include a mattress, while others require you to purchase one separately. Purchase a mattress that is designed to be suitable for the sleeper that is placed on the bedside cot mattress. Mattresses that are second-hand can be too soft, and may be a risk for SIDS. Also, you will need to purchase a breathable fitted sheet for your bed and a blanket for your baby. To make cleaning easier ensure that the lining fabric or foam mattress can be cleaned in a machine. A basket or shelf for storage is a convenient feature to store essentials such as nappies, clothing and muslins. There are many models that have wheels to make it easier to move around the house.

Support for Breastfeeding

If you decide to breastfeed the baby, a cot with a bedside position can help you to get the most out of your feedings at night. Attached to your bed, you can reach over to feed your baby whenever you wake up. The cot's side can be lowered to create a bassinet that is shallow to ensure safe sleeping side-by-side. Some models can also tilt to provide support for reflux.

The curving sides make it easy to see and lift your baby up to feed. They won't roll off the side. Some cots for bedside crib with changing table sleepers feature an automatic rocking function which can soothe your baby and help them to fall asleep more quickly after a feed.

When it comes to keeping baby clean, a cosy fabric and removable bedding that can be machine-washed are a great option. Certain models are equipped with gentle rocking or vibration functions which can calm your baby into sleep. Breastfeeding mothers will also appreciate having lots of storage.

It is a good idea for nursing mothers to share the bed with their infants. This also lets them develop bonds of friendship as they sleep. Research has shown that babies who are breastfed who share a sleeping space with their mothers have better outcomes than babies who are bottle-fed. It is vital to be aware of the hazards and practices that come with bed-sharing with a newborn baby and select a mattress that is safe for your baby.

Some sleeping bags in the bed have soft surfaces on the edges that could keep your baby in the bag. You also need to be cautious not to let your bed-side sleeper slide backwards, creating an opening that your baby may crawl into or roll over.

If you are worried about the security of a sleeper in bed you should consider attending an LLL meeting or speaking to a Sleep Leader to find out more about the sleep habits of breastfeeding mothers and babies. They can help you create an environment for sleep that is safe for your baby, and help you understand the dangers of SIDS. They will also inform you about the "sweet sleep" of nursing mothers, which includes many of the same protection factors as breastfeeding.